2003 Donkervoort D8 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 535 kg more than 2003 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2003 Donkervoort D8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Donkervoort D8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Donkervoort D8 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Donkervoort | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | D8 | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
